A violent thief has been jailed for six years following the “despicable” robbery of a deaf man.

Sean Dickson, 25, from Worcester Way in Gorleston, was sentenced last Friday (October 27) after he pleaded not guilty during a two-day trial at Ipswich Crown Court.

Dickson had denied stealing the bank cards of a 50-year-old deaf man following an incident on April 15, after hitting his victim – who he had known since childhood – over the head in an alleyway off London Road South, in Lowestoft.

Police said the victim was a “vulnerable individual with a significant hearing impediment,” who has general poor physical health.

A police spokesman said: “The victim was struck to the head causing him to fall to the ground with Dickson continuing to assault him by kicking and punching. The victim sustained injuries to his right ear, a broken nose and left eye as well as visible swelling and bruising and was taken to the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston for treatment.

“Following the assault Dickson also then stole an envelope containing various bank cards belonging to the victim.”

As well as the jail sentence, Dickson also received a restraining order lasting until further notice not to contact the victim.

Speaking after the case, Det Insp Matt Adams from Lowestoft CID, said: “The victim had known Sean Dickson since a child so to suddenly turn on this vulnerable individual in such an aggressive and violent manner, causing such injuries is particularly despicable.

“He has a history of violence and was convicted in 2013 for a robbery of a wheelchair bound woman when he stole her necklace.

“It is very satisfying to see Dickson behind bars for some time and will mean his victim can work on rebuilding his life after what has been a traumatic time for him.”